Brian Urlacher an Arizona Cardinal? Agent checks in

In this Nov. 19, 2012, file photo, Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) warms up before an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in San Francisco. The Bears announced on Wednesday, March 20, 2013, that they were unable to reach a contract agreement with Urlacher, who is an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

Back in 2000, the Arizona Cardinals held the seventh pick in the NFL Draft.

The team had many needs at the time, and as it turned out, many quality players to choose from.

Some thought they'd look to the offense and draft a running back like Tennessee's Jamal Lewis or Virginia's Thomas Jones, while others believed they might look to the defense and nab New Mexico's Brian Urlacher.

The Cardinals took Jones, and the Bears selected Urlacher two picks later.

Both had decent careers, but it's safe to say the Cardinals would have been better off with the linebacker.

According to an ESPN Chicago report, Urlacher's agent is hoping the team feels that way now after the Bears released the eight-time Pro Bowler.

Urlacher, who will be 35 in May, said his agent has talked with the Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals. ESPN Twin Cities reported last week that the Vikings would not be interested in Urlacher unless his price comes way down.

While Urlacher is still a big name and effective player, it's tough to see the Cardinals having much interest. They've already signed Jasper Brinkley and Lorenzo Alexander, and don't really have a need for the 34-year-old.

Then again, though Urlacher's production has slipped in recent years there is no doubting the leadership qualities he brings to the table, and that's something new Cardinals coach Bruce Arians may not mind having around.